A day trip west into California to Death Valley National Park: Badwater Basin at 282 feet below sea level, Zabriskie Point, Artists Drive and some of the hottest temperatures on Earth.
Death Valley National Park is a land of extremes about two to two and a half hours west of Las Vegas, across the state line in California. Badwater Basin is the lowest point in North America, 282 feet below sea level, a vast salt flat where you can walk out onto crusted white polygons.
The park also holds the world's highest reliably recorded air temperature, 134°F in 1913. July average highs at Furnace Creek are around 116 to 117°F, and summer days regularly go above 120°F. Despite the name, it is one of the most varied desert landscapes in the US, with colourful badlands, sand dunes and mountains rising above 11,000 feet.
A typical day trip from Las Vegas follows a well-worn loop. Zabriskie Point overlooks golden, eroded badlands that are especially striking in early light. Artists Drive is a one-way road through hills streaked with pink, green and purple minerals, with Artist's Palette as the classic stop. Badwater Basin has its sea-level sign high on the cliff above you.
Many tours add the Furnace Creek visitor center, the Devil's Golf Course salt formations or the Mesquite Flat sand dunes, and some go up to Dante's View for a panorama across the whole valley. Guided tours include hotel pickup, park entry and usually lunch.
Timing matters enormously. From roughly October to April, temperatures are comfortable and short walks are a pleasure. From May to September, heat is a serious risk. Tours still run, but time outside the vehicle is kept short and hiking is not advised after mid-morning. Whatever the season, carry more water than you think you need, wear a hat and sunscreen, and do not leave the road if you are driving yourself. Cell service is unreliable and distances between services are long.
If you drive yourself, fill your tank before leaving the Las Vegas area, because fuel inside the park is limited and expensive. The usual route goes through Pahrump. Park entry is charged per vehicle and is valid for several days. A guided tour is the easier option for most visitors, especially in summer. The trip is best for people who are fascinated by extreme landscapes and are happy with a long day in a vehicle.
What to expect
The experience
Badwater Basin is the lowest point in North America at 282 feet below sea level. You can walk out onto the salt flats from the parking area. Look up at the cliff to find the sea-level marker.
Best time
October to April; summer visits are possible only if short and carefully managed.
How long
A full day, about 10 to 12 hours.
Tips
Artists Drive is a one-way loop through hills coloured by minerals in shades of pink, green and purple. The Artist's Palette viewpoint is the classic photo stop, and it is best in the late afternoon. A short walk up from the car park to a view over golden, eroded badlands. It is one of the most photographed places in the park and especially good early in the morning. July average highs are about 116 to 117°F, and temperatures can exceed 120°F. In summer, keep time outside short, drink constantly and never hike in the afternoon. October to April is far more comfortable. About two to two and a half hours each way from Las Vegas, usually via Pahrump. Fuel up before you leave, as services in the park are limited. Cell coverage is patchy, so download maps. Go between October and April. Summer visits are possible but must be short and carefully managed. Book a guided tour unless you are confident with long desert drives and limited services. Ask whether your tour includes Dante's View or the sand dunes, which make the long drive more worthwhile.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Landscape photographers and anyone fascinated by extreme environments.
- Families
- A long, hot day; best for older children and teens.
- Couples
- Dramatic, empty landscapes for a day away from the Strip.
- Pair with
- Pairs well with Valley of Fire and Red Rock Canyon.
- Time needed
- A full day, about 10 to 12 hours.
Good questions
How far is Death Valley from Las Vegas?+
About two to two and a half hours each way by road to the Furnace Creek area. A day trip typically lasts 10 to 12 hours.
What is Badwater Basin?+
A salt flat 282 feet below sea level, the lowest point in North America. You can walk out onto it from the parking area.
How hot does Death Valley get?+
July average highs are about 116 to 117°F, and temperatures can exceed 120°F. The world's highest recorded air temperature, 134°F, was measured here in 1913.
When is the best time to visit?+
October to April, when temperatures are comfortable for short walks. In summer, visits must be short and well prepared.
Is park entry included on tours?+
Guided tours normally include park entry. If you drive yourself, you pay a per-vehicle fee that covers several days.
